Cook Salary in Midland, TX
Cooks in Midland, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.15 per hour, which translates to about $606.00 per week, $2,626.00 per month, and $31,512.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Midland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive demand trajectory in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Midland, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Midland varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.69 | $467.60 | $2,021.87 | $24,260.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.15 | $606.00 | $2,626.20 | $31,511.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.64 | $785.60 | $3,401.87 | $40,771.20 |
Do Cooks in Midland, TX Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Midland, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of approximately $16.11 per hour and about $33,508.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Midland earn slightly less hourly at $15.15 per hour, and the yearly salary sits a bit under the national figure at $31,512.00. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Midland for Cooks
Exploring nearby areas reveals that Cooks in some locations earn higher wages:
- Downtown Midland: $18.50 per hour
- ClayDesta Plaza: $17.60 per hour
If you are open to commuting, these areas provide opportunities for higher pay than the Midland average.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Midland, TX?
Several key factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Midland:
- Experience and skill level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary techniques typically command higher salaries.
- Type of establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Relevant certifications: Certification in food safety and culinary skills can enhance earnings.
- Shift and hours worked: Night shifts or overtime can also impact total income.
- Local demand and cost of living: Economic conditions in Midland influence wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Midland, TX
Starting a successful career as a Cook in Midland involves several steps:
- Complete culinary training: Programs like the Midland College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Consider alternative education: Nearby Odessa College Culinary Arts Program also offers comprehensive culinary training with focus on baking and international cuisine.
- Credentialing: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification which covers crucial food safety standards, or the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to validate culinary competency.
- Gain practical experience: Entry-level positions, internships, or apprenticeships in local kitchens provide valuable on-the-job learning.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Midland, TX
Several key employers actively seek skilled Cooks in Midland:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Eurest
- Saltgrass Steakhouse
Establishments That Cooks in Midland, TX Work At
Cooks in Midland typically find opportunities across various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours with middle-range pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Pay tends to be closer to entry level, with emphasis on speed and efficiency.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer better pay and benefits with a focus on quality service.
- Fine Dining: Higher wages are common but demand advanced culinary skills and experience.
The type of establishment significantly impacts hourly pay and growth opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Midland, TX for Cooks
If you’re interested in careers similar to Cook, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, which involve overlapping culinary skills and varying responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Midland, TX
Cooks working in Midland should familiarize themselves with local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- For general state labor information, visit the Texas government website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides detailed resources on employment rights, wage laws, and workforce development.